Britain warns of 'anti-UK sentiment' in Gambia

DAKAR, Senegal – The United Kingdom has warned its citizens of rising anti-British rhetoric from Gambia President Yahya Jammeh, who last year accused the former colonial power of organizing coup attempts in the West African nation.

A British travel advisory posted last week said Jammeh's statements, reported widely by local media, could "increase anti-U.K. sentiment among parts of the wider population" and warned tourists to "avoid discussing politically sensitive topics."

Gambia is a popular beach destination for British tourists although Jammeh's government has been regularly criticized by Britain and other Western powers for human rights abuses, including when it executed nine death-row inmates by firing squad in August 2012.

Last October Gambia accused Britain and the United States of organizing coup attempts and financing the political opposition, allegations both governments denied.